Megan Alexander-Short, 12-14, De La Salle North Catholic, Portland, OR
Growing up with my grandfather, many of our conversations were sprinkled with one of his many, many, many sayings. One that has stuck with me is the following:
“Not knowing I cannot say, but having the deepest regard to the truth I hesitate in making any positive assertions.” -Anthony Thomas Alexander Jr.
After reciting this, he would get a twinkle in his eye and just starting laughing. At the time, I had no idea what he was saying. It took me countless visits during the summer months to master the wording and years to fully understand what my grandpa was saying. This phrase is a complex and confusing way to say something quite simple…“I have no idea the answer to the question you are asking, and I will not be able to give you an answer at this time.” I have only used this a few times in conversations, and it has a similar confusing effect on others that I felt when my grandpa would say it to me.
I have been thinking of this quote from my grandpa quite a lot lately. I am about 20% complete with my second year as an LV. The future is looming in front of me like a carrot hanging from a string. I feel similarly to my last years in high school and college. Many people have asked what my plans are for when I complete my second year as an LV. My response right now is that I am living in the moment, and I am not thinking about it until Christmas.
This past year and a half I have learned and grown so much. I feel as if all my experiences in school have prepared me for what I am doing now. Through my experiences as an LV, I have found my path. I may not know what’s next, but I know that if I continue down this path I have started I will be content and doing what I am called to be doing.
Next time someone asks what my plans are for the future I will say, “Not knowing I cannot say, but having the deepest regard to the truth I hesitate in making any positive assertions.”
Megan Alexander-Short, 12-14, De La Salle North Catholic, Portland, OR